The Haute Route breaks new ground in China with Haute Route Qingcheng in 2019

10/12/2018

Following the recent launch of new events in Oman and Mexico, the Haute Route Cycling Series continues its development beyond Europe and North America by expanding to China from 2019.

In just 8 years, the Haute Route Cycling Series has become the world’s most prestigious series of multi-day cycling events for amateur riders and offers an exciting calendar in 2019 with 14 events; starting in Oman in March and finishing in China at the end of October.

Haute Route founder and CEO Rémi Duchemin spoke on the development of Haute Route in China: “Sport generally is booming in China and an increase in wealth and leisure time in the past 10 years means the idea of cycling for sport is becoming very popular. This focus is also driven by the Central Government, who in recent years has given top priority to the development of cycling and sport for China through national level policies. The number of professional riders is rising and the participation of Chinese riders in our Haute Route events is following the same trend. Hao Hu was the first Chinese rider to reach an Haute Route podium when he took 3rd place in the Haute Route Dolomites general classification in 2017. Haute Route Qingcheng is meeting a strong demand for a world-class event to enter the Chinese market with our experienced partner, Xingzhi Exploring Group.”

Based in the Sichuan province, the new Haute Route Qingcheng will offer the possibility for both Chinese and international riders to experience an Haute Route over 3 days in a new and picturesque cycling destination. Participants will benefit from premium level services both on and off the bike, including mechanical support, medical services and road security, as well as daily briefings, massages and post-stage meals.

Following the success of an invitational event in October, the inaugural edition of the Haute Route Qingcheng will be held from 25-27 October 2019. Located in Dujiangyan, the event will be based at the foot of the Qingcheng mountain, one of the most famous Taoist mountains in China. Open to Solo or Duo (team of two) riders alike, the event will feature two classic stages and an uphill time trial. A guaranteed highlight of the three days, riders will get to climb the road up to Qingcheng Mountain which is usually closed to the public. On top of this memorable climb, riders will also get to experience the colourful historic towns, incredible temples and bamboo forests which are emblematic of the region. Watch the video from the Invitational Event here.

Located in the southwest region of the country, the Sichuan Province is one the largest provinces in China and the gateway to Tibet. Known as the Country of Heaven thanks to its world heritage irrigation system, the Sichuan Province is also famous for its Giant Pandas and spicy food. Immersing themselves in the rich local culture and enjoying the tasty regional cuisine, riders will certainly be able to make the most of their stay in China. Chengdu International Airport (CTU) is located just an hour’s drive from Dujiangyan and is the fourth largest hub in mainland China with direct flights to most major North American cities and European capitals.

One of the privileged few to take part in the Invitational Event, Haute Route veteran Nic Frank was impressed by the unique culture and stunning landscapes of the region: “Riding to the north of Dujiangyan, there are lush green mountains that mark the beginning of the Tibetan plateau, the largest and highest plateau in the world.”

“The mountains were exactly as I had imagined them from Chinese landscape art, transmitting a type of emotion and mystical atmosphere. We were transported into a previous time and slower pace of life,” he added. “For those who have a sense of adventure and want to experience something different, both on and off the bike, Haute Route Qingcheng will certainly offer something unique and unforgettable.”

Riders interested in the Haute Route Qingcheng can now pre-register their interest here ahead of registrations opening in the coming weeks.

The Haute Route’s objective is to deliver an unparalleled 'professional' experience for amateur cyclists. This means not only delivering first class hospitality and event management, but all the key ingredients that make up the culture and experience of professional road racing.